Preview | Ashford Town (h) - Middlesex Senior Challenge Cup

This will be an opportunity to see a young Barnet side get their chance in a competitive game. Players such as Kai McKenzie-Lyle, Fumnaya Shomotun and Darnell Smith are likely to feature.

Challenge Cup Rewind:

The last game in the Middlesex Senior Challenge Cup for Barnet was against Enfield Town at The Hive London, with Enfield coming away 3-1 winners.

However, the game will be fondly remembered thanks to Joe Payne’s halfway line wonder goal, his first for the club, racking up nearly 250000 views online.

Manager: Ben Murray

Murray was given the job three seasons ago at a very young age and even now is one of the youngest managers in the League. He likes to play in a certain style and coaches his teams accordingly.

He promised promotion from the Combined Counties League in two seasons and achieved it. Last season’s aim of a top half finish and a cup was also achieved. He also takes a full part in running the club.

Dangerman: Jack Beadle

Jack arrived from neighbouring Bedfont Sports and his strong flank play, usually down the left flank from midfield but not always, has generally ensured a regular place.

Still only 23 he looks stronger than ever this season and is often amongst the goals. He had a short spell at Egham Town last season but returned before the end of the campaign and now has 163 appearances and 47 goals under his belt.

Connections:

Goalkeeper Craig Ross started his career at Ashford Town, playing for his hometown club between 2008 and 2010, before joining Carshalton Athletic.

He played for several clubs in non-league, such as Cambridge United, Whitehawk and Macclesfield Town, before signing for Barnet in the summer of 2017.

With 17 appearances across all competitions so far this season since Jamie Stephens picked up an injury, he’s more than proved himself in his first taste of league football.

Last Time Out:

In their last fixture, Ashford drew 2-2 at home against Bedford Town despite being 2-0 up.

Fisher scored a penalty just before half-time before Boye scored just after the break to give Ashford some breathing space.

Manu got a goal back for Bedford sooner after however in the 55th minute. 21 minutes later, Bedford got their equaliser through Peters, fighting back to earn a share of the spoils.

Ashford now sit fourth in the Evo-Stik League South-East table, Bedford are currently 12th.

In the first round of the Challenge Cup, Ashford ran out 3-1 winners against Wembley FC.